Chena Riverwalk

The best option for running in Fairbanks is also the easiest to access from downtown. The Chena Riverwalk is a classic waterfront multi-use path that spans several paved miles across downtown Fairbanks. There are two sections, with a 1.3 mile on-road gap between them. The easternmost segment begins near the intersection of Airport Way and Steese Highway. From here, it wraps north through Bud Nelson Riverside Park, under the photogenic Moose Antler Arch, and crosses a bridge to Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish (1.5 miles).

After a gap of 1.3 miles (you can run on 1st Ave. and 2nd Ave., there’s a decent sidewalk), the western segment sets out from Kiwanis Park and travels west for roughly 1 mile into Pioneer Park. From Pioneer Park, more paths continue out along Peger Road, the Johannsen Expressway, and Airport Way. While none of these paths are particularly scenic, there are good options for extending your mileage and/or connecting routes.